Welcome Back!
eeting Barbra once was fantastic… meeting
her a second time, well, how lucky can you get?
In this issue we have endeavoured to cram as
much of the European tour in as we could, along with
pictures and side note. Many thanks to the many fans
who kindly sent along their pics for our use, sorry if
you are not credited, but I tried my best to keep track
the many names and countries etc. Do know that we
do appreciate it very much!
Steve and I were lucky to be invited backstage after
Barbra’s fabulous concert at the MEN, Manchester, UK
– it was a fantastic evening and we loved the show
and enjoyed our meeting with Barbra, her friends, her
husband and her adorable doggie, Sammy!
We thank our other contributors for their wonderful
articles, reports and interviews and we do hope you
enjoy the issue we have put together.
We are now an incredible 23 years old! Shocked…
it surprised Barbra too! But so rich, colourful, varied
and accomplished is her life, that our longevity has
been possible – that and the loyalty of you, our
steadfast readers.
Barbra really does have some of the most fantastic
fans.
Thank you,
Lynne
Ed-in-Chief, AB Publications (UK)

LYNNE POUNDER: Publisher/Editor-in-Chief
STEVEN BAXTER: Associate Editor and Design
STAFF WRITERS: Todd Sussman, Larry Olson, Matt
Howe and Allison J. Waldman • SPECIAL THANKS:
Martin Erlichman Associates – Marty Erlichman
and J-Me Diamond, Dick Guttman Associates,
Mark J. Iskowitz, Stephen Thacker and Craig Hall.
PRINTING: Aztec Printing, Washington, England
Publication in this magazine does not imply endorsement by AB Publications of
views expressed. ALL ABOUT BARBRA is an unofficial fan magazine. We do
not represent Ms. Streisand nor her management. Ms. Streisand has no
financial, promotional or editorial interest in its publication. No part or article
may be reprinted without written permission from the publisher.

AB Publications, 17 Adrian Place, Peterlee, Co. Durham SR8 5SR

www.allaboutbarbra
FOR ALL BACK ISSUES!

This
Year’s
Oscars!
Tie?!” Barbra exclaimed
in a pre-recorded
segment for the 80th
Annual Academy Awards
(Sunday 24 February, 2008),
referring to her tie with
Katharine Hepburn back in
1969 for Funny Girl.
(Hepburn won for The Lion
In Winter).
The increasingly self-effacing Streisand went on to say
“There were five great performances... and I thought mine
was pretty good. I wouldn’t say great... But I thought, why
don’t they give us all plaques?”. “Hello, Gorgeous! - It was
great”, Barbra concluded.
Barbra’s last appearance at The Academy Awards was in
2005.
CRAIG HALL

A
“

by theway
Sunrise, Sunset
for Barbra?

Further Support
for Hillary

umors are flying around that 2008 will be the year
Barbra returns to the big screen and the project she
chooses may be Andrew Lloyd Webber’s “Sunset
Boulevard.” Prompting speculation are a few stray facts that
may – or may not – add up to Barbra’s agreeing to play
Norma Desmond, the doomed diva from the original film
written and directed by Oscar-winner Billy Wilder. The first
fact was a story in the New York Post on January 23, 2008,
stating that William Friedkin would be directing the big
screen adaptation of Webber’s stage musical for Paramount
Pictures, which owns the rights and released the Wilder
film in 1950. IMDB.com now lists the film as a live project,
but Friedkin nor Barbra are mentioned. Friedkin, an Oscarwinning director for “The French Connection,” has directed
Barbra in the past: “Putting It Together: The Making of The
Broadway Album” and the “Somewhere” music video.
Will Barbra do “Sunset” – should she? There is intense
debate online about the subject. She’s already sung two
songs from the score – some say the two best songs. LloydWebber gave her free rein to sing whatever she wanted from
the show before it opened, that's how much he admires and
respects her as an artist. Barbra recorded “With One Look”
and “As If We Never Said Goodbye,” for “Back to
Broadway.” She then had the lyrics of “As If” reworked and
used it as her triumphant opening number for “The Concert”
on New Year’s Eve, 1993, in Las Vegas when she returned to
live performing (for non-charity events). At the time, it was
a given that if “SB” was a hit on stage, Barbra would be the
likely actress to make it into a movie because of her box
office clout. When Glenn Close was cast in the Broadway
version and won a Tony for her portrayal, she became as
viable a choice for a big screen translation, too.
That leads to the second fact, reported in early February,
2008, that Lloyd-Webber confirmed that both Barbra and
Glenn were vying for the role. He said to WENN: “The
remake of ‘Sunset Boulevard’ is not really under my control.
It’s really controlled by Paramount, because they own the
original movie. I am just waiting to hear what Paramount
in the end want to do about it. It is absolutely true that both
Glenn Close and Barbra Streisand very much want to play
the part. But I’m slightly with my hands tied behind my back
about it.” The third fact, which is really more supposition,
comes from James Brolin. He was asked about Barbra in
late 2007 and he said that she has something in mind for
2008, “something poignant.”
For now, unless and until Barbra confirms that she wants
to do the movie, “Sunset Boulevard” remains a possible
maybe.
ALLISON J. WALDMAN

arbra's support of Presidential Candidate Hillary
Clinton continues in 2008 as she introduced the
candidate at a rally on January 31. Following the
Democratic debate at the Kodak Theatre in Los Angeles, a
Clinton Rally was held at the Beverly Wilshire Hotel.
Barbra's remarks are below in their entirity:
Aren’t we fortunate? We have wonderful,
accomplished candidates vying for the democratic
nomination. But, for the first time in our country’s history,
we not only have a woman, but a woman who is the most
experienced candidate. Hillary Clinton dares to penetrate
the powerful world of men, to challenge their policies and
debate their ideas with her keen knowledge and
qualifications. Throughout her many years as a public
servant, Hillary has utilized every opportunity to make this
country strong, safe and just. And, thankfully, we have now
entered a time when people discuss the content of her
ideas and not just the style of her hair. Today, young women
throughout our country look at Hillary Clinton and realize
that their potential has no limits. As the first First Lady to
become a United States Senator, Hillary has already cracked
the glass ceiling, and in November, she will shatter it.
Some people question the idea of a woman president.
Perhaps that’s because our country is still young and we
haven’t caught up to other places around the world where
women are currently serving as Presidents or Prime
Ministers ...Argentina, Chile, Germany, Finland, India,
Ireland, Liberia, The Philippines, New Zealand,
Mozambique and the Ukraine.

R

Israel at 60:
Barbra Live?
ill Barbra sing live at the 50th Anniversary
celebration of the State of Israel? According to
a story in the Jerusalem Post, which has not
been confirmed by Barbra’s camp, “Barbra Streisand will
open the three-day Jerusalem Conference under the
patronage of President Shimon Peres on May 13, in
celebration of Israel’s 60th anniversary of
independence.” The President had told the media last
year that he would approach Streisand and ask her to
sing Avinu Malkeinu at the opening of the conference.
Will she – again, we'll see. ALLISON J. WALDMAN

W

Charting Barbra
ne of the many bonuses from Streisand's live
appearances in Britain in 2007 was that, according to
Music Week, Barbra's Essential album re-charted
and sold enough copies to become the UK's 25th best
selling back catalogue album of the year and contributing
to the overall UK sales of 467,000 since its original release.
The Live in Concert 2006 album also appeared in the 2007
UK album charts, debuted at number 48 and selling
43,000. In the States, the live album debuted at number
7 on the Billboard top 200 albums chart, making it
Streisand's 29th US Top 10 album. STEPHEN THACKER

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All About Barbra

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B

“

With our nation in turmoil and so much at stake in this
election, we need a leader who has been in the trenches
for over 35 years advocating for the young, the old, the poor
and the disenfranchised. As a woman and as a lawyer,
Hillary played a pioneering role in raising awareness of
issues like sexual harassment and equal pay. As the First
Lady of Arkansas, she directed a task force to improve
education. In the White House, Hillary led the fight to
expand quality health care. She advocated globally for
women's rights. She fought to increase funding for breast
cancer research and to help our veterans suffering from
Gulf War syndrome. As a Senator, she authored legislation
to make prescription drugs more affordable and to increase
America's commitment in fighting the HIV/AIDS crisis.
With grace and dignity, Hillary Clinton has proven she
has the inner strength to persevere and withstand the
grueling attacks that have been and will be heaped upon
her. She will take us into the future with her dynamic
leadership. Once again, America will experience a time of
economic stability and fiscal responsibility…a time when
America will again lead in technology and innovation…a
time when Americans will be able to afford to buy a house
and pay their mortgage... a time when millions of
Americans will have new jobs working in green technology
and alternative energy…a time when every man, woman
and child in America will have health care coverage…and
yes, a time when our country will once again be respected
around the world.
When I introduced Hillary at the Aids Project LA Gala
back in 1994, she had just finished her first year as First
Lady. I had acknowledged during that speech the likelihood
that someday Hillary Clinton would be sitting in the oval
office. Now almost 15 years later, we no longer need to
imagine it…that moment is here.
So it is with great pride that I introduce a friend
and the next President of the United States, Hillary
Rodham Clinton.

”

by theway
Politics, Charity, Philanthropy and Hillary

Gone Too Soon

BY LARRY OLSON

hree men who had a significant role in Barbra Streisand
career have passed away in the recent months:
Michael Kidd, the choreographer for “Hello, Dolly!”;
David Watkins, the cinematographer for “Yentl”; and
Dwight Hemion, the director of her TV specials, “My Name
Is Barbra,” “Color Me Barbra,” “Barbra Streisand & Other
Musical Instruments,” “One Voice,” and “The Concert.”
Michael Kidd died of cancer on
December 23, 2007. The Brooklyn-born
dancer and choreographer was
responsible for all the musical numbers in
“Hello, Dolly!” and you can see his
athletic, jubilant style truly on display in
the “Dancing” number.

arbra Streisand spent much of 2007 working on the European Tour, but she also devoted time to make several
appearances in support of charities and political groups important to her. She attended a fund-raising event for
Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton’s presidential campaign on March 25. Held at the Beverly Hills estate of
supermarket magnate Ron Burkle, 700 guests paid $2,300 each to dine with Senator Clinton and about 250 of those
contributed an additional $2,300 per person to attend a pre-dinner reception which resulted in a total amount of
$2.6 million being raised. Streisand and James Brolin attended the pre-dinner reception and were seated at the head
dinner table with Senator Clinton. Other attendees included Ted Danson and Mary Steenburgen, Carole Bayer Sager,
Paula Abdul, Norman Lear, Berry Gordy and many media industry executives.
After dinner, Mary Steenburgen introduced Senator
The evening began with cocktails served in the
Clinton, who spoke about climate change, Sept. 11
garden, with dinner in a tent, followed by entertainment
funding in New York and health care. During the
from David Foster, Kenny G, Josh Groban, Nita Whitaker
question and answer session, Streisand asked the first
and Tara Kamanger.
question, “Did New York ever get the money for 9/11?”
A few days later on April 25th, Barbra attended the
Clinton replied, yes, but only after she and New York’s
Los Angeles Antique Show Opening Night Preview Party
other senator, Chuck Schumer, specifically requested it
to Benefit Charity Partner P.S. ARTS. She viewed the
from President Bush.
various antiques and reportedly purchased an antique
A few weeks later, on April 17, Streisand attended a
end table to support the charity.
cocktail party held on the grounds of Viacom Chairman
In May of this year, People magazine reported
Sumner Redstone’s hilltop estate to raise money for
research and rankings done by The Giving Back Fund,
breast cancer research. The event featured former
which listed the personal philanthropic donations of U.S.
President Bill Clinton who spoke about health care
celebrities given in 2006. Barbra Streisand ranked
advances and the National Breast Cancer Coalition
fourth with total giving of $11,750,000.
Fund’s work to eradicate breast cancer.
After her record-breaking European tour during the
A video was shown saluting Clinton’s mother, Virginia
summer, Barbra’s attention returned to political
Clinton Kelly, who died from breast cancer in 1994.
activities.
President Clinton spoke and thanked Streisand for
On November 27, Barbra announced her endorsement
befriending his mother at his first inauguration in January
of Hillary Rodham Clinton for the U.S. Presidency. Her
1993. “I want you to know something,” Clinton said of
press release stated:
Streisand, “she called my mother once a week for one
“Madame President of the United States...it's an
solid year until she died. And I will never forget that.” He
extraordinary thought. We truly are in a momentous
recounted that his mother spent the last week of her life
time, where a woman's potential has no limitations,"
playing slot machines and hearing Streisand sing at the
said Streisand. "Hillary Clinton has already proven to a
MGM Concerts in Las Vegas.
generation of women that there are no limits for
On April 21, Streisand hosted a fund-raising political
success. She is driven by her passion for public service
event at her Malibu estate honoring Nancy Pelosi, the
and her belief in the enormous potential of our country.
Speaker of the House in the U.S. Congress. Commenting
Smart, capable and strong in her convictions, Hillary has
on why Streisand hosted the event, her publicist Dick
transcended the dictates of what is thought to be
Guttman said, "She's a very good friend of Nancy Pelosi
possible for our time.
and she wanted to celebrate the first female speaker of
"Hillary is a powerful voice for change as we find our
the house.”
country at an important crossroads. Under her
120 people paid up to $50,000 a couple to raise funds
leadership, our country will regain its respect within the
for the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee,
global community. She will prioritize issues of global
whose efforts are geared toward increasing the party’s
climate change, universal healthcare and rebuilding a
House of Representatives majority in the 2008 elections.
strong economy. After 8 long years, the public will once
The total money raised was $1,300,000.
again have faith in their government.
Besides Pelosi, political figures who attended were
"Another former first lady, Eleanor Roosevelt once
Congresspersons Hilda Solis, Chris Van Hollen, Xavier
wrote, 'In government, in business, and in the
Becerra, Loretta Sanchez, Debbie Wasserman Schultz,
professions there may be a day when women will be
Brad Sherman and Henry Waxman.
looked upon as persons. We are, however, far from that
Among the entertainment industry figures who
day as yet.' More than 50 years later 'that day' is now
attended were Norman Lear, Eva Longoria, Dick Van
upon us...and Hillary Clinton is ready to shatter through
Dyke, Melissa Etheridge and Alan and Marilyn Bergman.
that glass ceiling for all women." ■

B

BarbraStreisand.com
– the future
f you have access to the internet you have likely seen
Barbra’s brand new official webpage. Designed by the
great guys at BubbleUp – with Barbra’s input.
Do not mis-judge the site in its current form - AAB can
reveal that there are many great plans and ideas in the
pipeline for the webpage. Much is going on behind the
scenes so make sure you bookmark the site and check
it daily as to not the miss any of Barbra’s articles,
announcements, and the events that will come to life in
the near future.
With the advances in today’s technology,
BarbraStreisand.com is the future and will become a
definite hub for fans world-wide. When we met Barbra in
Manchester, I did bring up the web with her and she
understood that, as a publisher, we have noticed a great
change in recent years and that web is fast, and
immediately accessible to people world-wide.
I recently spoke with Marty and told him I do sense
change is in the air and that Barbra’s webpage is the
future.
LYNNE POUNDER

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All About Barbra

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David Watkin died at the age of 82 on
February 19, 2007. The cinematographer,
an Oscar-winner for “Out of Africa,” was
Barbra’s director of photographer for
“Yentl,” and she worked very closely with
him to create the unique, Rembrandtinspired, sepia-tone look of the film.
According to his obituary in the London Times online: “He
got on well with Barbra Streisand, the notoriously difficult
producer, director and star of ‘Yentl,’ though he hated her
music. She tried to get him to go to her concerts, but he
refused. His passion was classical music." (Note: those are
their words, not AAB’s.)
Finally, Dwight Hemion passed away on
January 31, 2008 of kidney failure. Barbra
and husband James Brolin were on
holiday with Gary Smith and his wife
when they were notified that Dwight
died. Gary had been partners with Dwight
in Hemion-Smith Productions. They cut
short their vacation and returned to Los Angeles
immediately. Barbra and Dwight had worked intimately on
many of her TV specials. Mr. Hemion had won 18 Emmys
for his TV direction, including ones for “Musical
Instruments” and “The Concert.” Speaking of Barbra's
first special in 2002, he said, “Streisand was great to light.
She had great features and beautiful skin, great fingers. If
ever you see her, look at her hands because that's what
it's all about with her.”
ALLISON J. WALDMAN

eb 5 Through her publicist Dick Guttman, Barbra released
a statement of support for U.S. Democratic presidential
front-runners: “I’m very excited about the strength of the
Democratic field for the 2008 presidential election, and I’m
looking forward to a lively and healthy primary debate that
discusses the key issues facing this country. Because I want
to see the frontrunners have the financial backing they need
to be competitive during this process, I’ve decided to make
the maximum allowable primary donation to Hillary Clinton, John
Edwards and Barack Obama. As the conversation continues, I
may make contributions to other candidates as well.”

F

Feb 9 The Los Angeles County Museum of Art announced that
Barbra had been named to their board of trustees, along with
three other newly named leaders. "This is a truly remarkable
time to be part of LACMA,” board chairwoman Nancy Daly
Riordan said in a statement. “I am certain that our new
trustees agree and will bring an added level of experience and
engagement to the museum's transformation." The Museum
is embarking on a multi-million dollar renovation of their
museum complex. Barbra owns work by Gustav Klimt, Emil
Nolde, John Singer Sargent, Robert Henri, Edward Hopper and
Thomas Hart.

This lovely photo of Barbra with her dog appeared
in the October issue of Italian Men’s Vogue.
It was taken by Bryan Adams, who attended
Barbra’s second London show, so was likely taken
backstage at the O2.

Feb 14 The Board of Supervisors of the Los Angeles County
Fire Department announced a $10,000 donation from Barbra
Streisand. The grant went to five stations in Malibu to be
used to purchase new tools and equipment for the fire
stations.
Mar 25 The U.S. presidential campaigns continued to heat
up as Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton was the honoree at a
fund-raising event held at the Beverly Hills estate of magnate
Ron Burkle. 700 guests paid $2,300 each to dine with Senator
Clinton and about 250 of those contributed an additional
$2,300 per person to attend a pre-dinner reception, which
resulted in a total of $2.6 million being raised. Barbra and
James Brolin attended and were seated at the head table with
Senator Clinton. Barbra also participated in the question and
answer session held after dinner.

2007 A YEAR IN REVIEW
BY LARRY OLSON

May 4 Tickets went on sale for Barbra’s first London concert.
It sold out in 20 minutes. A second concert was immediately
announced, which sold out in 30 minutes.

Apr 12 Barbra and James Brolin opened their Malibu home,
hosting a dinner that raised $1.3 million for the Democratic
Congressional Campaign Committee in the U.S. With the
goal of increasing the Democratic majority in the House of
Representatives, Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi was the
honored guest, among the 120 invited attendees, with each
couple donating $25,000--$50,000. Following cocktails and
dinner, entertainment was provided by David Foster, Josh
Groban, Kenny G, Melissa Etheridge, Tara Kamangar and Nita
Whitaker.
Apr 16 Barbra lent her presence and financial support to a
fund-raising gala for the National Breast Cancer Coalition, held
on the grounds of Viacom Chairman Sumner Redstone’s hilltop
estate in California. Former President Bill Clinton spoke about
health care advances and the Coalition Fund’s work to
eradicate breast cancer. He commented on his mother,
Virginia Clinton Kelly, and her fight with breast cancer. He
thanked Streisand for her friendship and support of his mother,
commenting that he would never forget that Barbra called his
mother once a week during the last year of his mother’s life.
Apr 25 Philanthropy
continued to be a priority
for Barbra when she
attended the Opening
Night Preview Party at
the Los Angeles Antique
Show. Benefiting the
charity P.S. ARTS, Barbra
viewed various antiques
and reportedly purchased
an antique end table to
support the charity.
Apr 30 After months of
speculation, Barbra’s First
European Concert Tour
was announced, including five dates, with more
to be confirmed. Vienna,
Paris, Nice, Dublin, and
London were the first
dates confirmed for the tour, promoted by Concert Productions
International. “What a joy it will be to perform in so many
wonderful countries for the first time,“ Barbra said in a press
release.

May 5 – 31 Throughout the month of May, concert dates
were added in Rome, Dublin, Stockholm, Berlin, and
Manchester. Ticket sales began on numerous dates and the
concert schedule underwent slight adjustments.
May 8 The two-disc “Live in Concert 2006” CD was released
in the United States, a compilation of performances in concert
order recorded live in New York, Washington, DC and Ft.
Lauderdale. The following week, the CD entered the Billboard
charts at #7. The U.K. release was delayed until May 28.
May 15 At the BMI music organization’s annual gala, Barry
Gibb was presented the BMI Icon Honor, announced via a
video message and phone call from Barbra. Barbra explained
she had hoped to be at the event personally, but that she was
tied up working on her upcoming concert DVD. Barbra said,
“Barry, can you believe it’s been 27 years since we made
Guilty?”

June 30 The outdoor theatre Waldbühne was the setting for
Barbra’s box-office record setting concert in Berlin, Germany.
Die Welt online wrote, “Her performance not only touched
the stars that shone above the Waldbühne, Streisand also
extended the night sky's infinity with her heavenly show.”
July 10 In the fifth stop of the tour, 14,000 fans packed the
M.E.N. Arena in Manchester, England, setting another boxoffice record. “What is stunning is the sheer artistry of
Streisand's interpretative range,” wrote Paul Vallely in The
Independent.
July 14 Barbra’s outdoor concert at the Castletown House near
Dublin, Ireland set more box office records. Damien Murray, in
the Belfast Telegraph, wrote, “having witnessed Streisand’s
sensational and powerful singing at her first ever Irish concert
appearance as part of a select few dates on her debut European
tour, it is obvious that no choice of adjectives could ever do
justice to the star-quality that oozes from this lady.”

June 18 Barbra kicked off her first-ever European concert tour
at the Hallenstadion in Zurich Switzerland, thrilling fans and
setting new house records for concert grosses. “The singer
and actress is a legend: a luminous personality with an
enormous aura and an unmistakable voice.”– Kurier.
June 22 After a one-day postponement due to rain and high
winds, Barbra sang for 14,000 concert-goers in an outdoor
setting at the Schoonbrunn Palace in Vienna, Austria.
Reviewers wrote: “No one can escape her charisma: a voice
that gives Goosebumps, a gleam of silver.”
June 26 At her first-ever concert in Paris, France, Barbra set
a box office record for the Bercy venue. Le Monde wrote:
“Streisand is a work of art. She is Broadway, love, la fête,
perfection ... She has absolute mastery of the stage”. Music
legends Charles Aznavour and Michel Legrand were in the
audience.
June 28 Two days after her first-ever concert in France,
Barbra received the French Legion of Honor, presented by
President Nicolas Sarkozy. During the ceremony at the Elysee
Palace in Paris, Sarkozy said “you are the America that we
love.” Barbra’s husband and son attended the presentation of
France’s highest civilian honor.
June 30 Prior to Barbra’s Concert in Berlin, she signed the
city’s prestigious Guest Book at the Waldbuhne in the presence
of the Lord Major of Berlin, Klaus Wowereit and MP Peter
Schwenkow. Her signing marked the first time that the Guest
Book had ever been removed from City Hall.
All About Barbra

4

July 18, 22, 25 Barbra gave three concerts at London’s 02
Arena and the result could be summarized as “spectacular.”
“The voice, oh the voice. What an instrument of beauty and
wonder it is, whether wrapping itself around a grief-stricken
You Don't Bring Me Flowers, slipping into French during Ma
Premiere Chanson or being fabulously sultry on Unusual Way.
And when she hummed the first bars of The Way We Were, I
had a genuine attack of goose-bumps,” wrote John Aizlewood,
in the Evening Standard. The Guardian stated, "The amazing
Barbra Streisand is the last of the great Broadway babes ...
with a stunning range of vocal styling in a setlist spanning her
whole career." The conclusion of Barbra’s European tour again
set new box office records for the final three shows in London.

Europe Tour Announcement Results in Stampede for Tickets
BY LARRY OLSON
he 2007 Streisand European Concert Tour was officially announced on 30 April 2007. Even at this point in the
career of Barbra Streisand, it marked an important first. The press release stated that Streisand “will perform
live in Continental Europe this June and July for the very first time in her celebrated career. She will also perform
her first concert in London since 1994.”
Marty Erlichman announced the tour to the press, and noted that “the recent U.S. tour, her first in six years, had broken
box office records in a staggering 14 of the 16 venues she played. She
already held, and still holds, the record in the remaining 2 venues.” As
in the 2006 U.S. tour, designated proceeds from the tour would be
distributed through The Streisand Foundation to her various philanthropic
initiatives.
The first five locations, dates and venues announced were: 21 June,
Vienna, Schloss Schonbrun; 26 June, Paris, Bercy; 10 July, Nice,
Nikaia Stadium; 14 July, Dublin, Castletown House; and 18 July,
London, The O2 Arena. The announcement noted that additional
dates and cities were in final negotiations and would be confirmed
shortly.
"What a joy it will be to perform in so many wonderful countries for the
first time,” said Streisand in the statement released to the press. “I can't
wait to experience these different audiences and different cultures.”
She also was interviewed by USA Today’s Elysa Gardner for an article
published the next day, 1 May.
"I like challenges, and it's time to do things that I haven't done before,"
she told Gardner, as she discussed her decision to tour Europe, and also
talked about the fall U.S. tour.
"This time, I really enjoyed touring the United States, because I didn't
have stage fright," Streisand said. "Would I rather have been in bed eating
a pint of coffee ice cream? Yeah. But I can't raise money for my foundation
that way."
“One matures, one gets less afraid,” Barbra said in the electronic press
kit released (pictured above), which included remarks in several languages. “One appreciates the fans, and wanting
to see me, and I want to give that back.”
She also explained, “The show is similar to the one I did in the United States, but I am changing some songs because
I’ve never performed in Europe before, more songs that they might know and like … I’ve always wanted to come to
Europe to sing, somehow I never got around to it … I’m looking forward to this.”
Tour promoter Michael Cohl, for Concert Productions International (CPI) said, “It is an incredible honour to bring
Barbra Streisand, certainly the greatest female performer of all time, to Continental Europe for her very first concert
tour. It is an amazing show -- a once in a lifetime experience not to be missed."
The following Friday, 4 May, the flurry of ticket sales began with a bang at 9 am in London. Tickets, ranging in price
from £100 to £500 for the 18 July concert, sold out in an astonishing 20 minutes. A second London concert on 22 July
was immediately announced and also sold out. The following Monday, 7 May, tickets went on sale in Vienna. Two
days later the Rome concert was announced. The next Friday saw tickets go on sale for Rome and Dublin.
The activity continued unabated on 16 May with the announcement of a third London concert on 25 July, with tickets
on sale 18 May. 22 May saw the announcement of the Stockholm, Sweden concert (4 July), followed on the 25th
with the Zurich, Switzerland concert (18 June) confirmed. As the month of May came to an end, the concert schedule
solidified; Rome and Nice were dropped, with Berlin, Germany (30 June) and Manchester, England (10 July) being
announced on 29 May.
At that time, promoter Cohl said, “since the announcement of the tour, we have received unprecedented demand
from around the world to see Barbra perform live, and we are trying our best to keep up with the requests.
We’re very happy to be able to accommodate the overwhelming reaction by adding these new shows.” ■

T

Aug 14 Back in Los Angeles, Barbra and James Brolin
attended the premiere of his new film, “The Hunting Party,”
the story of three journalists who attempt to locate Bosnia’s
most-wanted war criminal, but are mistaken for CIA
operatives.
Nov 3 Following the devastating wildfires which destroyed
thousands of homes in southern California, investor Ron Burkle
assembled a select group of citizens at his Beverly Hills estate,
Green Acres. About 50 people, including Barbra, attended
the event, with guest of honor being former President Bill
Clinton. Nearly $300,000 was raised for the San Diego
Foundation, which provides relief to fire victims.

Nov 17 Barbra returned to Las Vegas as the headlining
performer during the gala opening of the new Planet
Hollywood Resort and Casino. Her Saturday evening
performance included 9 songs, with arrangements taken from
the 2007 tour. Bill Ross conducted a small backup group as
Barbra performed for approximately 40 minutes in front of
nearly 5,000 invited guests.
Nov 27 Barbra formally endorsed U.S. presidential candidate
Hillary Rodham Clinton, stating “Hillary Clinton has already
proven to a generation of women that there are no limits for
success … Hillary is a powerful voice for change as we find
our country at an important crossroad. Under her leadership,
our country will regain its respect within the global community.
She will prioritize issues of global climate change, universal
health care and rebuilding a strong economy.”
“I am honored to have Barbra’s support,” Clinton responded.
“Barbra has used her immense talent to be an advocate for
trust, justice, and fairness and I deeply appreciate her
confidence in my candidacy as we work together to change
the direction of our nation.”
Dec 6 When the 50th Annual Grammy Award nominations
were announced, Barbra received her 39th nomination for the
“Live in Concert 2006” CD, in the
category Best Traditional Pop
Vocal Album. Other nominees
included James Taylor, Michael
Buble, Bette Midler and Queen
Latifah.
Barbra’s earlier live
CDs for “Timeless” and “The
Concert” were also nominated
in their respective years, 2000
and 1994.
Dec 19 The Recording Academy
announced new inductee, into
the Grammy Hall of Fame.
Barbra’s 1974 single, “The Way
We Were” was included. The
Recording Academy press
release stated this year’s
inductees, “exemplify the best
qualities that make the
recording arts such a vital part
of our culture – and each not
only uniquely reflects the
zeitgeist of its time, but also Barbra was photographed
possesses the enduring power Christmas shopping in
of transcending time." ■
December in Beverly Hills.

An Economic Benefit for Musicians
BY LARRY OLSON
he press has widely covered the Streisand 2007 European Tour, but the New York Times came up with a unique
angle, with their story on the economic benefit for orchestra musicians in the New York area. Published on
Saturday, June 16, and titled, “Streisand Tours, and New York Musicians Cheer,” the story shed light on the pool
of musicians who provide the lush 58-piece orchestral sound behind Streisand during each of her concert
performances.
A few key orchestral positions are filled by Los Angeles-based “Streisand regulars.” But, according to the Times,
the majority of the Streisand tour orchestra is composed of musicians who normally play in the pits of Broadway
shows and with New York area orchestras. They were chosen by Michael Keller, the music contractor for the
European tour, who also contracted the North American tour last fall. Mr. Keller used a database of 2,500 names
of musicians that he has primarily worked with before and ones he knows are expert musicians, dependable and who
blend musically.
Not only do those chosen musicians benefit from regular employment during the tour, but other freelance musicians
benefit by being employed to fill in during the absence of the tour players.
The article states that for those freelance musicians back in New York who substitute for the missing regulars, this
provides an opportunity to establish their reputation, which can lead to more employment in the future.
The Times article, written by Daniel J. Akin, stated the “Streisand effect … is especially welcome as the size of
Broadway orchestras has declined over recent years.” Arkin wrote that for the Europe tour, four violinists and a
trombonist were selected from the orchestra of the Broadway musical “Spamalot.” Two violinists, a trombonist and
a French horn player came from “Legally Blonde.” Other shows who lost musicians to the tour were “The Drowsy
Chaperone,” “Wicked,” “Avenue Q,” “Hairspray” and “The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee.” In addition,
other members came from the American Ballet Theater orchestra, the Brooklyn Philharmonic and the Westchester
Philharmonic.
The tour musicians receive weekly salaries as well as daily per diems, and their travel and lodging are paid for,
according to the Times. The cost of touring a 58-person orchestra is a significant expense.
In addition to the prestige and experience of playing in the Streisand orchestra, a factor that makes the Streisand
tour an even more “plum assignment” is that there are several days between each concert in Europe. As Barbra
herself said in advance promotional materials, she wanted to have time to enjoy the countries she sang in. That extra
tour benefit spills over to the orchestra musicians as well.
So it’s a “win-win” situation for everyone involved. Top musicians are employed to play on the Streisand tour, and
substitute musicians back in New York are employed and getting new opportunities. ■

T

All About Barbra

5

ROSLYN KIND IN CONCERT

Sister Act
By Todd Sussman

Todd with Sheldon, and Sheldon's wife, Judy.

alf-sister, actually. And less than half an act. Fans who traveled to West Palm
Beach on Saturday, April 14, 2007, to see Roslyn Kind sing live certainly enjoyed
hearing her rich voice. She has a lower register than Barbra’s and a smokier tone.
While the voice may have been missing some of Barbra’s fluidity, Miss Kind was not short
on talent. However, she was short on stage time. On a double bill with singer/piano man
Michael Feinstein at the Kravis Center, the show spanned more than two hours and
spotlighted more than 20 standard songs from Broadway and film, yet Roslyn performed
a total of just three songs, and one of those was a duet with Feinstein. Though their
billing was equal in the ads, this was clearly Feinstein’s show, and Roz’s cameo was more
of a “special guest star” appearance.

H

In Act One, after completing four songs on his own,
Feinstein introduced Rozzie, as he called her. Her scoopneck black gown was very similar to one Barbra donned
for her 1994 Anaheim appearance, save for a black velvet
free-form pattern adorning the length of the dress. Her
ample cleavage and shoulder length blonde locks and
bangs were also reminiscent of Barbra’s style. Rozzie hit
the ground running with a poignant rendition of “Come In
From The Rain.”
She introduced her next song with patter about the
London tabloids being “tougher than our Enquirer and Star”
and then continued, “Well if they can do it to my big sister
Barbra, why not me?” Apparently, they printed a rumor
pertaining to her not wanting to perform songs associated
with Barbra. Roz proved it untrue by singing “I’ve Gotta
Be Her” to the tune of “I’ve Gotta Be Me.” She peppered
the song with excerpts of some of our Streisand favorites:
“People,” “Enough Is Enough,” “The Way We Were,” and
“Let’s Hear It For Me.” Vocally, there were glimmers of her
famous sibling in the belted notes. Her mannerisms and
hand gestures were very early-Barbra.
Feinstein returned, stating, “What pipes in that family!
My brother and sister can’t sing.” (Interestingly, in spite
of the Barbra parallels on stage, Kind’s full-page bio in the
Playbill did not mention Barbra even once.)
Roz came back at the last minutes before the final
curtain in Act Two, to join Feinstein in a duet of
“Accentuate the Positive.” They both sounded sprightly
and dynamic for this closing song, with Roz’s voice
especially full and open from the get-go. The result was to
leave us wanting more Roz.
Since this was mostly a Michael Feinstein show, I would
be remiss not to report on his performance. He showed a
charming stage presence, and his affinity for this category

of music – standards from the Great American Songbook
– comes through in his romantic baritone, nimble piano
playing, and encyclopedic knowledge of the roots of these
songs. Many of his anecdotes were told to him firsthand
by the legendary composers who became his friends,
including Ira Gershwin and Burton Lane.
Feinstein looked good in his black velvet jacket and black
tie accented with thin, shiny silver stripes (where can I get

SO KIND: Roz and Todd, backstage. Photos by Hart Prochazka
All About Barbra

6

one of those!). He introduced one Gershwin song, “Isn’t
It A Pity,” by announcing that “many recorded this,
including Miss Streisand.” Other songs in his set that
Barbra has also sung included “Come Back To Me,” “The
Girl Next Door” (though Barbra sang about “The Boy Next
Door”), and “Somewhere.”
Classic film star Vic Damone, who watched from the
audience and then made his way to the foot of the stage,
exclaimed that Feinstein’s rendition of “Somewhere” was
the best he had ever heard. It was heartfelt and strong, yet
Barbra’s is still the one to beat.
Though several of my friends were disappointed that
Roslyn Kind was not granted more time on stage, the
opportunity to greet her backstage after the show more
than made up for this. Roz was gracious and accessible as
she fielded questions and posed for pictures. When I told
her how kind she was, she quickly replied, “Well I have to
live up to my name.” As an added bonus, Sheldon
Streisand – or Shelly, as Roz introduced him during the
show – was backstage too, with his wife. Sheldon was
friendly to all who approached him. ■

fter taking America by storm, Barbra took a well-earned break. Meanwhile, fans in
Europe lived on rumours and hope of another tour, a tour that would bring Barbra into
the cities and capitals of Europe …another first in her glittering career.
Finally the waiting was over and the Streisand European Tour 2007 was officially
announced on 30 April 2007. The press release stated that Streisand “will perform live in
Continental Europe this June and July for the very first time in her celebrated career. She
will also perform her first concert in London since 1994.”

Productions International (CPI) said, “It is an
incredible honor to bring Barbra Streisand, certainly the
greatest female performer of all time, to Continental
Europe for her very first concert tour. It is an amazing
show – a once in a lifetime experience not to be missed."

discussed her decision to tour Europe, and also talked
about the fall U.S. tour.
"This time, I really enjoyed touring the United States,
because I didn't have stage fright," Streisand said.

The following day, Friday, 4 May, the flurry of ticket
sales began with a bang at 9 am in London. Tickets,
ranging in price from £100 to £500 for the 18 July
concert, sold out in an astonishing 20 minutes. A second
London concert on 22 July was
immediately announced and also sold out.
The following Monday, 7 May, tickets
went on sale in Vienna. Two days later
the Rome concert was announced. The
next Friday saw tickets go on sale for
Rome and Dublin.
The activity continued unabated on 16
May with the announcement of a third
London concert on 25 July, with tickets on
sale 18 May. 22 May saw the
announcement of the Stockholm, Sweden concert (4
July), followed on the 25th with the Zurich, Switzerland
concert (18 June) confirmed. As the month of May came
to an end, the concert schedule solidified; Rome and
Nice were dropped, with Berlin, Germany (30 June) and
Manchester, England (10 July) being announced on 29
May.
At that time, promoter Cohl said, “since the
announcement of the tour, we have received
unprecedented demand from around the world to see
Barbra perform live, and we are trying our best to keep
up with the requests. We’re very happy to be able to
accommodate the overwhelming reaction by adding
these new shows.”

A

Marty Erlichman announced the tour to the press, and
noted that “the recent U.S. tour, her first in six years,
had broken box office records in a staggering 14 of the
16 venues she played. She already held, and still holds,
the record in the remaining 2 venues.”
As in the 2006 U.S. tour, designated
proceeds from the tour would be
distributed through The Streisand
Foundation to her various philanthropic
initiatives.
The first five locations, dates and
venues announced were: 21 June –
Vienna, Schloss Schonbrun; 26 June
– Paris, Bercy; 10 July – Nice,
Nikaia Stadium; 14 July – Dublin,
Castletown House and 18 July – London, The O2
Arena. The announcement noted that additional dates
and cities were in final negotiations and would be
confirmed shortly.
"What a joy it will be to perform in so many wonderful
countries for the first time,” said Streisand in the
statement released to the press. “I can’t wait to
experience these different audiences and different
cultures.”
She also was interviewed by USA Today’s Elysa
Gardner for an article published the next day, 1 May.
“One appreciates the fans, and wanting to see me,
and I want to give that back.”
I like challenges, and it's time to do things that I
haven't done before," she told Gardner, as she

“Since the announcement of the tour, we have
received unprecedented demand from around the
world to see Barbra perform live.” Michael Cohl

"What a joy it will be to perform
in so many wonderful countries
for the first time...”
– Barbra
"Would I rather have been in bed eating a pint of coffee
ice cream? Yeah. But I can't raise money for my
foundation that way."
“One matures, one gets less afraid,” Barbra said in the
electronic press kit released, which included remarks in
several languages. “One appreciates the fans, and
wanting to see me, and I want to give that back.”
She also explained, “The show is similar to the one I
did in the United States, but I am changing some songs
because I’ve never performed in Europe before, more
songs that they might know and like … I’ve always
wanted to come to Europe to sing, somehow I never got
around to it … I’m looking forward to this.”
Tour promoter Michael Cohl, for Concert
All About Barbra

8

“I’ve always wanted
to come to Europe to sing,
somehow I never got
around to it …
I’m looking forward to this.”
– Barbra

Starting Here…
Starting Now…
Zurich, Switzerland,
Hallenstadion – June 18, 2007
ACT ONE
Funny Girl Broadway Overture
Starting Here, Starting Now
Down With Love
The Way We Were
Ma Premiere Chanson
Evergreen (with Broadway Singers)
Special Guest set:
Something's Coming
You'll Never Walk Alone
I Finally Found Someone (Barbra returned on stage in the
middle of this song and sang the last part with them)
Funny Girl
The Music That Makes Me Dance
My Man
People
ACT TWO
Entr'acte
The Music Of The Night (with Broadway Singers)
Papa, Can You Hear Me?
Unusual Way
What Are You Doing The Rest Of Your Life?
You Don't Bring Me Flowers
(Have I Stayed) Too Long At The Fair?
William Saroyan The Time Of Your Life (Dialogue)
A Cockeyed Optimist
Somewhere (with Broadway Singers)
My Shining Hour
ENCORE
Don't Rain On My Parade
Smile

arbra arrived in Zurich amid a flurry of press attention
the moment she touched down. Her beloved pet,
Sammie on her knee, Barbra waved to fans and
photographers from her car.
Excitement quickly rippled across Zurich and fans
anticipated Barbra’s first
concert in her sell-out tour
of a ‘Streisand Live In
Concert’ starved Europe.
Barbra, and her husband,
stayed at the Bristol, The
Prince of Wales Suite, and
although much of Barbra’s
appointment book was
kept secret, some visits
made the press.
The Gallery at Belvedere
Place noted that Barbra
booked an appointment to
look at some of the works
there including its worldfamous Klimts, (which she
viewed there some 25
years earlier when making
Yentl).
The Hallenstadion was
(Top) Barbra arrives in
packed and the moment
Zurich and (below) taking
Barbra appeared on stage
some time out in the local the place-to-be location
markets
shook with what would be
the first of many rousing, warm receptions as Europe
embraced one of the last, true legends of the concert
stage and entertainment.
The ticket prices, the press, the anticipation and oh the
waiting... were a memory when Barbra sang. She proved
that other stuff was incidental. She proved it didn’t matter.
Barbra proved she was still the best …and worth it.
“When she sang MY MAN, I was just jumping on my
seat...it's my favorite Barbra song ever....and she sang it
so beautifully...thank you from the bottom of my heart
honey!” – Sylvia

B

All About Barbra

9

Dressed in a sleek black, sparkled gown, the ankle
length skirt slit to the thigh, a slim lined Barbra easily
worked the terrace like stage that housed a superb 58
piece orchestra. Her voice on top form, her presence a
visual delight –it was Barbra in all her promised glory, but
something was different. This time around, as we had
continually read in US concert reports, Barbra was more
relaxed. She appeared at home on stage …even enjoying
herself. The culmination was a playful, natural, Barbra
ready to accept and enjoy the genuine appreciation
swelling from the crowds.
Unfortunately, Il Divo were unable to join Barbra on
this leg of the tour, and instead she was joined by four of
Broadway’s finest performers Hugh Panaro, Sean
McDermott, Michael Arden and Peter Lockyer.
Easily masters of fine, commanding voices, they both
complimented and blended naturally with each other and
Barbra. The result: a powerful operatic performance of
sorts. An extra injection of class that enhanced the show,
elevating the experience that extra step higher.
REVIEWS
The royal tour of Europe starts here. After all the sound
and fury over those extravagant ticket prices, Barbra
Streisand finally set about the business of proving that
she really does deserve all that financial support. Though
there were no signs of rampant Barbra-mania in the
cavernous, 13,000-capacity Hallenstadion before the
orchestra struck up the overture from Funny Girl, a
ruthlessly efficient sequence of anthems brought the
audience to its feet by the close. Don’t Rain On My
Parade remains the ultimate show-stopper.
As is the way with these stadium spectacles, many
eyes were fixed on the video screens rather than the
distant figure on the stage. But to her credit, La
Streisand made a game effort to engage in down-toearth chit-chat, testing her German accent and cheerfully
describing her sightseeing trips around the city, not to
mention her passion for bratwurst.
Clive Davis – Hallenstadion, Zurich